The Paarl Rocks beat the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants by 31 runs in Wednesday’s Mzansi Super League fixture at St George’s Park in Port Elizabeth.

The result saw the Rocks and Giants swap positions in the 2019 tournament’s six-team standings. The Paarl and Giants franchise now occupy first and second position, respectively.

The Rocks climbed to a final total of 166-7 after losing the toss. England batsman James Vince shone with a solid 37 and was well supported by captain Faf du Plessis’ 27 and a brisk 23 not out from all-rounder Ferisco Adams down the order.

Leg-spinner Imran Tahir was statistically the best of the Giants’ bowlers. His brace included the key dismissal of the dangerous Cameron Delport.

The Giants’ pursuit was hampered by the departure of England opener Jason Roy for a first-ball duck, as the Rocks’ decision to open the bowling with spinner Bjorn Fortuin reaped immediate reward.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Ben Dunk kept the Giants in the contest, but lacked adequate help – and the Rocks sealed a fourth win for the season.

The Giants were without batsman Farhaan Behardien, who has been sidelined by injury. He has been replaced in the squad by Netherlands all-rounder Ryan ten Doeschate.

The Cape Town Blitz will host the Durban Heat at Newlands on Thursday.

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